In medical terminology, what does 'pulmonary' specifically refer to?

The term 'pulmonary' specifically refers to anything concerning the lungs. This is derived from the Latin word "pulmo," which means lung. In medical contexts, it is commonly used to describe conditions, diseases, or functions that involve the respiratory system, particularly the lungs. For example, pulmonary diseases include conditions like asthma, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Understanding this term is crucial for healthcare professionals as it relates to the assessment and treatment of various respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, thus highlighting the importance of lung health in overall well-being.